Geneva, 7 April 2025 – The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) participated in the 28th session of the Commission on Science and Technology for Development (CSTD), highlighting digital transformation as a key driver for inclusive economic diversification. Represented by Mr Jason Slater, Chief Digital and Innovation Officer, UNIDO showcased how developing countries can harness frontier technologies through targeted investments in digital infrastructure, skills development, and innovation. These efforts aim to address persistent inequalities, create new economic opportunities, and future-proof industries.
Mr Slater outlined a comprehensive strategy to accelerate inclusive digitalization, starting with investments in robust digital infrastructure and the enhancement of digital skills through programs like the Learning and Knowledge Development Facility (LKDF). The approach also focuses on empowering SMEs and startups via the ScaleX initiative, promoting innovation through Digital Kaizen masterclasses, building digital public infrastructure, and fostering global collaboration through open innovation platforms such as the UNIDO Solutions Platform (USP). This strategy aligns closely with the objectives of the Global Digital Compact, emphasizing digital inclusion, capacity-building, and international cooperation to ensure that the benefits of digital transformation are accessible to all, particularly in developing economies. “The GDC can be achieved with multi-stakeholder collaboration to co-create solutions” Mr Slater stated. Real-world examples from Ethiopia, Belarus, Tunisia and Côte d’Ivoire were shared to illustrate scalable, impact-driven solutions that are already transforming local economies.
Another key highlight from Geneva was the meeting between Mr Slater and H.E. Sergio González Guerrero, Minister of Production of Peru, where they discussed the potential establishment of a Digitalization Center of Excellence (CoE) in Peru under the new Programme for Country Partnership (PCP). The envisioned CoE would focus on digitalization and AI for innovators and SMEs—particularly in the textiles sector—offering infrastructure, training, and innovation support. This model draws from successful experiences in other countries and underscores UNIDO’s commitment to supporting local industries in adopting frontier technologies.
As global economies race toward digital futures, UNIDO emphasized that the transformation must be inclusive. Digitalization, when supported by policy, infrastructure, and strong partnerships, can empower people, diversify economies, and close development gaps. With its tools, platforms, and country-level partnerships, UNIDO continues to lead the charge in making sure that the digital age delivers opportunity for all.
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Contact: aim-global@unido.org
